Return to nature: Abu Dhabi's Jubail Mangrove Park will reopen to the public in October

The natural attraction has introduced an entry fee and a booking system

Jubail Mangrove Park opened on January 30, 2020. Photo: Antonie Robertson / The National

Jubail Mangrove Park is the first self-contained educational, nature and leisure destination of its kind in Abu Dhabi.Photo: Antonie Robertson / The National

The park aims to enhance the awareness, appreciation and understanding of the important ecological function of mangrove habitats that include protection of the Abu Dhabi Coastline and supporting biodiversity. Photo: Antonie Robertson / The National

The Qurum Walkway within the mangrove park has three routes. Photo: Antonie Robertson / The National

The shortest route on the Qurum Walkway is 1 kilometre and the longest is 2 kilometres. Photo: Antonie Robertson / The National

The view from the walkway, which has see-through nets. Photo: Antonie Robertson / The National

A special floating platform at Jubail Mangrove Park allows visitors to observe the mangroves and marine life without interference. Photo: Antonie Robertson / The National

The park aims to double as an educational centre. Photo: Antonie Robertson / The National

Mangroves prevent soil erosion and are good for the environment. Photo: Antonie Robertson / The National

The walkway is open to the public between 8am and 6.30pm. Photo: Antonie Robertson / The National

A beach platform at Jubail Mangrove Park where you can get your feet wet. Photo: Antonie Robertson / The National

A specially built viewing platform at Jubail Mangrove Park. Photo: Antonie Robertson / The National

Those dreaming of a nature walk now that the weather is cooling down will be glad to know Abu Dhabi's Jubail Mangrove Park will be reopening once more on October 1.

The walkway and tourist attraction, located on Al Jubail Island, closed in March in accordance with safety precautions to limit the spread of the coronavirus. But it’s all set to welcome guests once more.

For the new season, the park has introduced a fee of Dh15 per adult and Dh10 for those below the age of 18. Children below the age of seven can enter for free. There are also discounted family rates available.

A reservation to access the park is also now mandatory.

In a statement, the park has announced that it will have extra safety precautions in light of Covid-19. "We urge the public to help us keep our treasured park open by also doing their part by maintaining proper social distancing, by using masks and by practicing personal hygiene," said Richard Russell, chief operations officer of Jubail Island Investment Company.

A project by Modon Properties, Jubail Mangrove Park opened in January 2020, with the aim to raise awareness of the importance of the mangroves while protecting and conserving the natural habitat and its biodiversity.

The one million-square-metre area features a winding boardwalk that allows visitors to enjoy views of the mangroves spread out on all sides. The longest route is two kilometres, the mid-range option is 1.6km and the shortest route is one kilometre. The longest route can take anywhere between 35 to 90 minutes.

Along the way, visitors will be able to spot local bird, fish and crustacean species. The walkway also has six educational nodes, or areas, including a floating platform with a see-through net to catch a glimpse of the marine life underfoot, a viewing tower, and a salt collector installation that emphasises the changing tides.

Specially trained rangers will explain the history behind the mangroves and detail wildlife native to Abu Dhabi that can be spotted within the lush natural habitat and crystal waters. Educational tours led by rangers, as well as activities, such as kayaking, will also resume.

The facility also features a coffee shop, information centre and washrooms. Jubail Mangrove Park will reopen daily from 8am to 7.30pm (last entry is at 6pm) from Thursday,  October 1.

More information on the park can be found here.